Her Majesty and the Duke of Edinburgh visited Reed's School in Cobham in its bicentennial year

The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh were welcomed to Reed’s School in Cobham by a sea of a Union flags on Thursday.

Wearing a pale blue tweed coat dress by Stuart Parvin, and a matching hat by Rachel Trevor Morgan, Her Majesty smiled and waved at those who had gathered to see her at the school, which is celebrating its bicentennial.

After exiting their car, the royals greeted dignitaries including Dominic Raab, MP for Esher and Walton, mayor of Elmbridge Councillor Mike Bennison and Dame Sarah Goad, Lord Lieutenant of Surrey.

The Queen and Prince Philip made their way past the crowds to the school chapel, where they were welcomed by headmaster David Jarrett.

Mr Jarrett said: “On behalf of the staff, pupils and governors of this school, it is a pleasure to welcome Her Royal Highness and His Royal Highness to the school today.

“This royal visit continues a very special royal alliance with the school.”

The choir then performed Peace of God before the Queen unveiled a new stained glass window, which was provided by the Old Reedonians and Friends of Reed’s School.

The Duke of Edinburgh also unveiled a memorial stone to Reverend Andrew Reed, founder of the school.

After leaving the chapel, Her Majesty met students who receive the Queen’s bursary to attend the school, while the Duke of Edinburgh greeted pupils who have received an award from his scheme.

Ross Edser, 17, from Hinchley Wood, said: “It is brilliant being here today. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Baile Beyai, 17, from Clapham, was able to speak to the Queen.

He said: “She asked my plans after I leave Reed’s and I said I am hoping to go to Durham University to study geography. She said Durham is a very nice place.

“I am sure I will always remember that.”

Students also had the opportunity to speak to the Duke of Edinburgh.

David Diaper, 15, from Hounslow, said: “It was an honour to speak to him and he asked me about what I am going to do in the future. It is a great honour to have this opportunity.”

During her visit, the Queen visited a number of stands where students were able to show off the work they have done in a variety of subjects.

Tim Silk, director of drama, showed some of the creations of puppet-maker Amber Donovan.

Student Liam McCann, 15, said the Queen asked about the puppets and what they did before showing her how they are used.

Patron

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh also enjoyed viewing artwork created by A-level students before making their way to the school’s state-of-the-art FutureTech building.

Both royals were particularly interested in a racing car created by students and spoke at length with those who use it.

Mr Jarrett told the Queen he was allowed to drive the car once, before driving into a wall.

Student Patrick Leong-Son, from West Byfleet, said: “We have to design and make an electric car which we use to race against other schools in the country at Dunsfold [Park].

“It is quite nice to see them appreciate it, as a lot of work has gone into it. It is a very memorable occasion.”

The Duke also enjoyed viewing cupcakes displayed by enterprise students before remarking “have you not read the papers?”, in reference to recent coverage of people having too much sugar in their diets.

The royals also saw demonstrations of robots, with the Queen smiling in delight.

Before making their way to a private lunch, the royal couple both signed two photographs, one of which will be placed into a time capsule, and the visitors’ book.

The Queen, who is patron of the Sandy Lane school, last visited in March 1997 and planted a tree to mark her visit.

The tree still stands today and is surrounded by a bed of blue, white and red flowers.

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She has been editorial director of the online and print titles in Surrey and north-east Hampshire since 2007. Marnie previously worked at the BBC as a producer for 5 Live, having moved to national radio from BBC Sussex and Surrey.